A Comparative Study of English Translations of Paratexts in 
Tiangong Kaiwu from the Perspective of Thick Translation
-- Exemplified by the Versions of E-tu Zen Sun and Li Chiao-ping

Jiao Zhang; Lyu Zhang*

doi:10.70711/rcha.v3i8.7951

A Comparative Study of English Translations of Paratexts in Tiangong Kaiwu from the Perspective of Thick Translation -- Exemplified by the Versions of E-tu Zen Sun and Li Chiao-ping

Jiao Zhang, Lyu Zhang*

Abstract

This study examines the annotations in two English translations of Tiangong KaiwuRen's and Li's version through the lens of
thick translation theory, focusing on historical context restoration, cultural context reconstruction, and translator subjectivity. Ren's translation
incorporates historical annotations, thereby reconstructing the technological text within its historical framework. Li's version employs cultural
metaphors, challenging conventional translation norms. These differing approaches not only highlight the translators' agency but also demonstrate the versatility of thick translation in mediating ancient scientific knowledge across cultures.

Keywords

Thick Translation; Paratext; Context reconstruction; Translator's Subjectivity

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References

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.70711/rcha.v3i8.7951

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